C-11

The energy in the room was electric. The chandeliers above sparkled like a thousand tiny stars, casting a golden glow over the partygoers below. Tony and I strolled through the grand hall, drinks in hand, the music swelling around us. Laughter and conversation mingled in the air, a symphony of wealth and influence. Tony seemed relaxed, even cheerful, a stark contrast to his usual quippy deflections.

Obadiah Stane, however, was another story. His attempts to engage Tony were becoming more insistent with every passing minute. Finally, Tony had enough.

"Obadiah," Tony said, his voice sharp and final, "consider this your official notice. You're fired from Stark Industries. Effective immediately."

Stane's face contorted, a mix of rage and disbelief. He stormed out, leaving a trail of angry murmurs in his wake. I raised my glass to Tony. "Well done. That's been a long time coming."

Tony smirked. "Let's hope it's the last interruption tonight."

As the night wore on, the party continued. Tony swept Pepper off her feet onto the dance floor, spinning her gracefully. I found myself lingering by the bar, watching the swirling colors and motion of the crowd. Then, I saw her. A woman in a stunning blue dress that shimmered like the sea under moonlight. Her posture was regal, her confidence magnetic. She looked exactly like Gal Gadot, though she stood at 6', quite taller than any other girl at the event, and quite muscular as well. I made my way to her and wrapped my hand around her waist to get her attention as I took her hand in mine.

"Care to dance?" I asked.

She regarded me with a small smile. "I would be delighted."

On the dance floor, she moved with grace and precision. It was clear she was no stranger to this art.

"You're skilled," she remarked, her voice smooth, with an accent I couldn't quite place.

"I try my best," I replied with a smirk. "And what shall I call my dance partner?"

After the music ended and we stepped apart, she met my gaze. "Diana. Diana Prince."

I froze. That name. It couldn't be. My mind raced, piecing together the impossible as my instincts took over. I moved quickly, brushing my hands along her back under the guise of guiding her off the floor. My fingers found the cold, unmistakable edge of a sword.

Before she could react, I pulled it free, examining the craftsmanship.

"Nice blade," I commented, tossing it back to her. "Though a bit much for a gala, don't you think?"

She caught it effortlessly, sliding it back into the sheath hidden beneath her dress. "I'm here on a mission," she said, her tone serious. "I'm searching for Ares, the God of War."

I couldn't help but laugh. "Gods? Here? Sorry to disappoint, but you're looking in the wrong place."

Her eyes narrowed. "I believe Obadiah Stane may be connected to him."

Now she had my attention.

"Interesting," I said. "Maybe you've just made this party worthwhile after all."

Pulling out my phone, I quickly tapped out a message and handed her my number. "Here. Text me. My address is in there. We can talk more privately."

She raised an eyebrow but nodded. "I will see you soon, Bruce Wayne."

As she left, Tony appeared at my side, watching her exit. "Wow. She's gorgeous. You work fast."

"Keep your eyes to yourself, Stark," I said with a grin, earning a laugh and a clap on the back.

<-------------------- >

The next morning, I woke to the sun streaming through my windows and the sound of someone—not Alfred—moving around my room. I groaned, rubbing my eyes, only to find Diana standing over me in full battle regalia.

"We need to talk," she said.

I sat up, groaning again. "It's too early for god-hunting," I muttered.

She crossed her arms. "You know where to find Stane. Take me to him."

Swinging my legs out of bed, I stretched. "Fine. But at least let me get dressed first. Some of us aren't born ready for combat."

As I dressed, I stole a few glances at her iconic armor: the polished golden eagle emblem on her chest, the crimson and blue hues of her battle skirt, and the lasso of truth coiled at her side. It was the DC Rebirth look brought to life—practical yet undeniably striking. The intricate details of her bracers and boots told me they were no mere replicas. This was the real deal.

"You're staring," she said flatly, without looking at me.

Caught, I smirked. "Hard not to. You look quite amazing."

She tilted her head, her lips curving ever so slightly. "And you're a man playing at being a god."

"Trust me, I am not playing," I replied.

Alfred's voice chimed in. "Sir, might I remind you that you have a meeting with the world leaders in precisely fifty-three minutes?"

"Right," I said with a groan. "Duty calls."

"What meeting?" Diana asked, her tone curious yet wary.

"It is a meeting to create a team like you and I that will protect the world from any kind of threat that comes." I replied, as my Superman suit appeared over my clothes. The Vibranium plates shifted and locked into place as the sleek blue and red material molded perfectly to my form. The red cape unfurled down to my feet as I stretched, trying to wake up my body. "

Her eyes widened slightly, and she nodded in approval. "Impressive."

"Thanks. Custom design," I said. "Ever flown before?"

She raised an eyebrow. "No I have not, but I have swung across lighting with my lasso."

"Well, there's a first time for everything," I said, stepping onto the balcony. The morning breeze tousled my hair as I glanced at her. "Hold on."

Before she could protest, I grabbed her by the waist and pulled her close. The scent of fresh rain and lavender caught me off guard, but I didn't linger on it. "Ready?"

She nodded, gripping my shoulder firmly. With a smirk, I leaped off the edge, and we soared into the sky.

The sensation of flying never got old. The rush of wind, the hum of energy coursing through my suit, the boundless freedom—it was intoxicating. Diana, however, remained composed, her expression a mix of fascination and determination.

"Enjoying the view?" I teased as we streaked over the city, the rooftops blurring below us.

"I'll admit, it's… exhilarating," she said, a hint of a smile playing on her lips. "But don't get distracted."

"Yes, ma'am," I said, chuckling.

We landed at the airport's private tarmac, where my jet waited. Sleek, black, and outfitted with every technological marvel I could fit into it, it was a flying fortress in disguise. Diana raised an eyebrow but said nothing as we boarded.

"Alfred, set a course for Geneva," I said as we settled into the cabin.

"Already done, sir," Alfred replied. "And might I add, Ms. Prince's presence has elevated your style considerably."

Diana glanced around the jet, clearly impressed but too proud to say it outright. "You live an interesting life, Bruce Wayne."

"It's about to get a lot more interesting with you in it," I said, reclining in my seat. "Now, let's talk about Stane. Why do you think he's Ares?"